Atlanta, GA — A fraternity gathering at Coan Park turned deadly Saturday evening after a gunman opened fire, killing a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., and later dying himself after being shot by bystanders.
Authorities confirmed Monday that 23-year-old Justin Minnitee died at the hospital from injuries sustained during the shooting. He was identified by the DeKalb County Medical Examiner’s Office as the suspected shooter.
The first victim, 33-year-old Anthony Pearson, was pronounced dead at the scene on Saturday. Pearson, a Kappa Alpha Psi fraternity brother, was attending the sanctioned event at Coan Park on Woodbine Avenue when the violence erupted shortly before 8 p.m.
According to witnesses, the suspect — described by police as a “random man” not connected to the fraternity — approached the group and began arguing with several fraternity members. As some tried to de-escalate the situation, Minnitee allegedly pulled out a firearm and began shooting.
Pearson, who police say was shot in the head, died at the park before medics could arrive. Those who knew him described him as a mentor within the fraternity and a devoted father to his young daughter.
“It’s a tragic loss,” one fraternity member said. “Anthony was more than a brother—he was a guide and role model to so many of the younger men.”
In the chaos, multiple individuals who had concealed carry permits reportedly returned fire, striking Minnitee. He was rushed to the hospital in critical condition, where he died the following day.
Police have not confirmed a motive but said they believe the shooting was not a targeted attack against the fraternity.
The incident remains under investigation by the Atlanta Police Department, and officials are reviewing witness statements and surveillance footage from the park.
Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. has not yet released an official statement, but members say they are grieving deeply and calling for peace and unity in the wake of the tragedy.
As of Tuesday, no charges have been filed against the individuals who fired back at Minnitee, and authorities say those actions appear to have been in self-defense.
Community leaders and city officials have expressed condolences to the Pearson family and condemned the outbreak of violence at what was meant to be a peaceful gathering.
Pearson is survived by his daughter.